Seismic Warning Systems to Use Local Communications Network for Earthquake Warnings

A business that seeks to provide clients with several seconds of advance notice when an earthquake strikes is expanding in Southern California by buying capacity on a local scientific radio communications network.

A few seconds of warning before a major earthquake could save lives. That's why California legislators passed a bill last year asking officials to set up a seismic early warning system. The law also requires this system to be a public and private venture, but working out the details of that arrangement hasn't been easy.

The Imperial County Board of Supervisors approved a $250,000 award to Seismic Warning Systems, Inc. of Scotts Valley, to deploy the nation's first regional earthquake warning system, officials announced on Tuesday.